Lukus Wells

It may be nearly impossible to find Lukus Well's tiny home town of Barton, NY on a road map of the US, but that hasn't stopped fans all over the country from finding his unique talent.

"My parents used to tell me about the day I sang my first words. I was only two years old, we were on a cross country car trip, and the B52's were on the radio. 'And designer jeans with appliques on it.' That was the line. I had no idea what it meant. But at least it got me started, and I haven't stopped singing since."

A few days later, Lukus got a copy of Cyndi Lauper's "She's So Unusual" from his uncle. He played it so many times that the tape wore out.

Cyndi Lauper and Tori Amos; Ani DiFranco and Lady Gaga; Rufus Wainwright and Jill Sobule; Lukus's inspirations are from all over the map, but they've all got one thing in common:

"Genuine talent and great vocals. I'm not about all that studio processing—at least, not to fix somebody's bad singing."

And you'll hear it in his album. Lukus Well's unapologetic view of modern-day production technique has led to a debut album that captures all the beauty and imperfection of a simple acoustic guitar and the human voice. Produced with the help of Joe Kollar & Dan Forsyth of popular bluegrass band "Driftwood", Lukus's debut combines a traditional folk sound with the lyrical sensibility of a modern-day love ballad.

"It's a break-up album. We've all been there, we've all done that. Everybody can relate to love lost and lessons learned."

And although the inspiration is familiar, it's Lukus's angelic vocals, haunting melodies, and unique perspective that'll have you hitting the repeat button on your iPod time after time.

From "Airplanes", a somber anthem of longing relatable to anyone whoever has felt the heartache of a distant lover, to "Sad", the acerbic but wry tongue-lashing of a self-involved ex, each cut serves to demonstrate Lukus's range and emotional power. In "Earth and Sea", Lukus takes an impressive turn as a jazz crooner. And he finishes the album with "Blessed Be", a satisfying and optimistic catharsis that completes the arch of his troubled relationship.

Just ask anyone who's ever seen Lukus Wells live: His one-of-a-kind talent is apparent from the first note. And it's that talent that will see fans coming back for more year after year

The Little Theatre is the premier cultural center for the presentation of American independent and foreign films, visual arts and music for the greater Rochester community. Through educational events, the Little Theatre provides local artists a place to share and discuss their visions with a diverse audience.

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